At Home in the Country with Gil Schafer

Tag along for a behind the scenes visit to architect Gil Schafer's iconic Greek Revival country house, Middlefield, in upstate New York. Here Gil translates the rules of classic architecture for modern living, creating a new old house perfect for those who love timeless style but modern conveniences. For more visit quintessenceblog.com

[@carolking6355]

That has to be my favourite. It also stops me from feeling guilty. I have a table loaded with books and walls covered in paintings collected overrour 58 years of marriage. I adore my plants and feel embarrassed when told it clutters the house. I can see my darling 120 year old home is happy with inside and hedges outside. Thank you for such beauty. ❤️

[@quintessenceblg]

Our pleasure! So glad you love Gil's beautiful home too!!

[@erikellis5940]

I cannot tell you how many times I have seen this video. I catch something new every time. Gil is ridiculously talented

[@michaelj3504]

The perfect house. Incredible charm and coziness and livability. Every single thing feels right perhaps especially the endless green that surrounds this magnificent home.

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed!! Glad you enjoyed!

[@TheCMLion]

Now THAT is a new house done right! I often see new houses with no character trying to have an old feeling but failing miserably. I love the 'imperfect perfect' idea! What a magnificent home!

[@quintessenceblg]

Couldn't agree more! Glad you enjoyed!

[@richiesd1]

TheCMLion, looks messy to me. I think they do it better in Europe, adding modern to old, and vice versa. Why do Americans like to imitate old? I am American, btw.

[@CameronCourts]

@@richiesd1 I think it's wonderful when done right. This is done right. Like TheCMLion said, so many homes that go for the old world look end up looking like cheap knock-offs.

[@clairetremblay3023]

@@CameronCourts Yes and inside they look strange because all the details does not fit with the rest! Plus somethimes they add a modern kitchen!! :( A desaster with no charm indeed...

[@TheJohasir]

@@richiesd1 It's just my opinion, but I think people try to imitate old 'cause what you call "old" (antique=past) talks abaut a history and the beautiful, why not, of past. Modern is beautiful too of course, but modern is an evolution of past, so if you apreciate past, not just old, you cuold apreciate modern from diferent focus. Best regards.

[@MTMF.london]

This man has great taste and serious money to back it. I just love the way he said he "dropped" the biggest tree he could find into his garden.

[@quintessenceblg]

MT Yankin And so talented!!

[@andreapirringer7008]

I would be interested in how he got the tree in the garden ...

[@franzsela3891]

Quintessence has taught me to appreciate unconventional, shabby and cluttered yet amazing designs that are reflective of personal style. Susana Salk’s attention to details is remarkable from the furnitures and decors to fabrics. I never get tired of watching the episodes over and over agin.

[@quintessenceblg]

Not sure I would call any of the designs shabby but thank you - our goal is to give (a wide variety) of design a voice. And yes, Susanna is a great host - we are both delighted you come back to watch again and again! - Stacey (behind the camera)

[@franzsela3891]

Quintessence What I meant were the antique and rustic furnitures like the threadbare chair you featured in this episode....Normally, it should have been reupholstered but because of its sense of history, the owner decided to leave it like that.

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly!! Thank you for clarifying - and for your repeat visits!!

[@adrianfu3048]

Indeed I found this during lockdown .. Beautiful way to spend some quiet evening

[@cinziadeluca5074]

I don't think I can think of another house that I have seen that looks more serene than this! I want to sit on that sun porch in summer and read!

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed a beautiful serene house!!

[@maree-mareesongwriter6226]

What a gorgeous country home and estate. He really has achieved the look and feel of an old stately house, mixed with modern luxury, flow and practicality. The interior décor and design are so warm, comfortable and aesthetic, traditional but not stuffy. Superb grounds and gardens. Upstate New York looks like such a beautiful place to live!

[@gailolds1255]

What an incredible new-old house. Best of both worlds. Everything about this house feels old but living in a new environment which is amazing. Thank you for sharing your ideas.

[@quintessenceblg]

Gail Olds Gil is a master at bringing the past forward in a totally authentic way. Glad you enjoyed!

[@nextwave1314]

I want these videos to be longer, please! I love, love, love them.

[@missybelmont9830]

The perfect New England interiors!!! Beautiful, elegant, unpretentious. Well done!

[@quintessenceblg]

We agree!

[@ramelep]

Love the layers! The balance of old and New... Brilliant

[@quintessenceblg]

Me too!!

[@davidflory3597]

BEAUTIFUL INSIDE AND OUT!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Indeed!!

[@PtolemyXVII]

This home is a writer's haven! ❤️

[@katieharris412]

What a lovely house. It has everything: color, relics, antiques, & thoughtful layout. What a treat!

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes it does! Glad you enjoyed!

[@danieltodeschini8268]

This is my favourite house in this channel, I even bought Gil Schafer's book after watching it. Too bad Stacy didn't made a documentary of this house like Susanna suggested in the beginning of this video :)

[@quintessenceblg]

So very glad you loved Gil's house as much as I do! So glad you bought the book - hope you enjoy!! And take a look at Gil's website - lots of inspiration there as well!

[@mycatsweetheart]

Beautiful. and The Kitchen!!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Don't you just love the kitchen?!

[@ellalarkin1016]

Beautiful house. Very genteel 'Old South' feel to it; the view out to the ceiling-fan, the gorgeous wall-covering on the bedroom walls, the lightness of the draperies, and the lovely kitchen. Gil has beautiful taste.

[@elisabethlinz4256]

So gorgeous!!! The proprietor who tells the story of his house in such a kind and open way... The impressive traditional (but new) house, the marvellous garden and landscape surrounding the house and last not least attractive and empathetic Susanna... always engaging her hosts easily in an interesting conversation.

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed!!

[@elisabethlinz4256]

@@quintessenceblg thank you!

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you!!!!

[@sandrasaunders1815]

Dear Gil, Your home is the most! Thank you for inviting me in.

[@quintessenceblg]

Sandra Saunders So glad you not only loved Gil’s amazing home but enjoy tagging along!

[@sangokyoon2902]

Amazing! Beyond my discription.well cared and designed garden looks best in the whole world .gives you Thumb up!very anxious to see fall colors.

[@quintessenceblg]

It is amazing! So glad you enjoyed!

[@HillHouseVintage]

Absolute perfection and probably my favourite home featured so far!

[@wildlifephil]

And the garden too is simple but beautiful and grand at the same time

[@quintessenceblg]

wildlifephil Yes, the property is gorgeous - designed by the brilliant Deborah Nevins.

[@fancycat]

Simply stunning!

[@quintessenceblg]

cynthia Smith 👍🏻

[@brandonburrell8517]

Greek Revival is the most romantic. Awesome home, inside and out. Another terrific video. Love this channel.

[@judithkuney1766]

Mr. Schafer, your house is to die for. the energy it gives are so soulful and calming.

[@bohemiansantiques4222]

Truly incredible to see a Greek Revival new build filled with beautiful period antiques! Among my favorite pieces: the carved pineapple bed in the master bedroom, and the Empire secretary desk in the living room! Truly spectacular!

[@quintessenceblg]

Bohemian's Antiques Isn’t it amazing? Thank you!!

[@audreybutts615]

Layers of Love.

[@barbaranovello6184]

Gorgeous!

[@tinamccann8968]

That wonderful home is the "perfect storm" of the collaboration of exceptional minds. Quintessence's best episode!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you - Gil so very talented!!

[@milonacarmichael6534]

Amazing!

[@sylvanramble1757]

Absolutely gorgeous house and garden. Big yet cozy. I loved hearing about why different choices were made such as the windows being inline with the doorways to provide more light, and the stone walls and hedges defining the territory. A feast for the eyes and a learning experience, too. Thank you!

[@quintessenceblg]

So glad you enjoyed!! Gil is so talented - we were delighted to be able to share his home and insights!

[@maximhollandnederlandthene7640]

Wow, all inspired out of many other houses and creativity. 😊👏

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻 glad you enjoyed!

[@dboi149]

Such a beauty! The fact that the owner gave it so much character is divine. The quirkiness and his personal touches turned this house into a home. I love an old house obviously. It gives me joy to watch your videos and I always look forward to the next one. Thank you and good job!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you so much Danny! Totally agree about the house!

[@rere2410]

Breathtaking!!!!

[@MisterChris1978]

absolute perfection. marriages of modern comforts, conveniences, and sensibilities with old world aesthetic.

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly! It's a marvelous home

[@writebrobp]

The best of both worlds! Lovely!

[@quintessenceblg]

writebrobp Yes - so glad you enjoyed!

[@jenniferstaten]

I don't have words to say how much I love this! I feel like I'm swimming in a sea of love for a new house with an old soul. Just beautiful! Greek Revival is my absolute favorite. TY

[@quintessenceblg]

Jennifer I am absolutely delighted to hear that!! Gil’s house is a favorite of mine as well!

[@clt2744]

That garden is paradise on earth😻

[@dresqueda]

I may have written this before, but on second viewing this is still my favorite house of all time.

[@quintessenceblg]

I can understand that!

[@cheryl4729]

omg. I am in love...

[@quintessenceblg]

Easy to be in love with this amazing house and property!

[@carmengomez-munoz4723]

Gorgeous porch!

[@quintessenceblg]

Carmen Gomez It is indeed!!

[@Cenepk101]

How fun that was !!!!! So enjoyed that journey!!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you - so glad!!

[@yvonnerahmes9618]

I could live out my days here. I sent this to my dh so we can watch it together and discuss it. It is one of the most beautiful homes I have ever seen, the landscaping is- divine is not a good enough word. My head is spinning, how lucky he is to have made this happen in his life! My 2nd video from Quintessence, loving it!

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes - such a timeless classic!! And welcome - hope you'll check out more episodes - and consider subscribing if you like!

[@yvonnerahmes9618]

@@quintessenceblg oh yes, I subscribed directly after I watched my 1st video of yours in Charleston, SC (with Jill Shap Weeks). So glad to find you!

[@alfrancis8]

I could just live in that sun room alone... phew!

[@quintessenceblg]

@@yvonnerahmes9618 thank you!

[@quintessenceblg]

@@alfrancis8 Yup!

[@juliancoulden1753]

Sublime!

[@quintessenceblg]

Julian Coulden It is indeed! Glad you enjoyed!

[@justmegeorgie5930]

EXTREMELY ELEGANT! .... THIS IS A SERIOUS ARCHITECT & DESIGNER! BECAUSE IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT DESIGN. .... BUT INSPIRES YOU TO FEEL! FEEL YOUR MEMORIES, AND CREATE MORE!

[@quintessenceblg]

So true!!

[@CajunLady333]

Love the side glassed garden room. Love the shed and the straps on the door. So cute. It looks like an old timey school house.

[@CajunLady333]

Love everything. The kitchen, The Front Porch, The Master Bedroom, etc...

[@seachange17]

For someone that grew up in historic homes in one of the oldest towns (1803) in Ohio I see so much authenticity in this home. Nothing better than houses with old bones and mature trees.

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed! Glad you enjoyed!

[@donwarner6925]

I can’t get enough of this house.

[@PfadiHH]

Adorable and tasteful!

[@Francispia]

Love love love! And those books!

[@tyxeri48]

Definitely one of my favorite houses.Excellent use of colours, wise interpretation of the classical architecture and there's an unpretentious result. I have just discovered this channel and I am impressed. I really love the originality of the houses and the uniqueness of the owners.

[@quintessenceblg]

Welcome to Quintessence!! Totally agree with all your comments - one of my favorite houses as well! Look forward to seeing your comments on other episodes!

[@lisafox3907]

Gorgeous

[@cameliafranco2630]

OMG is absolutely beautiful that's MY DREAM HOME every single detail Lovett everything from the chickens to the goats and the beautiful rose arches all the details in the house decorations Furniture I just love everything very French Mediterranean loving place to be. And that way he addressed it exactly the right words🐎🌈

[@WrightFarmhouse]

What a warm and welcoming home. I especially loved learning about the mortgage button. Thank you for taking us for a peek inside.

[@Eristhenes]

The epitome of the American country house. I love his book. The bedroom looks a lot like a Michael Smith creation, would never have guessed Miles Redd.

[@francescadeimel7394]

hi please name of book?

[@hollywood7702]

Looks like it's been standing there for a century! Beautiful!

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly!!

[@audreybutts615]

Simply Beautiful.

[@jlusk999]

When I win the Powerball I know who will be building my house! Just a stunning home. So tasteful and not overly large. I think I would have permanent goosebumps if I was lucky enough to get to live in a place like that.

[@cargogh]

When you're discussing the cuttings on the kitchen mantel, I'm looking at the fireplace surround and paneling thinking it appears a hundred years older than the previous room. Thirty seconds later he explains just that. Mr. Schafer doesn't miss the minutiae. This house is so perfectly authentic, I bet it smells old. Brilliant.

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed - and I didn't think it smelled old but certainly feels it!

[@marthafigueroa4686]

Beautiful house and landscaped.

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed!

[@margoz7251]

Breathtaking design details!

[@sonjafarnsworth7783]

I enjoy all the Quintessence houses, but this one is my favorite. I admire Gil Schafer's cleverness in blending old-house proportions with today's livability.

[@quintessenceblg]

Elizabeth Farnsworth Such a beauty! So glad you enjoyed - Gil is so very talented!!

[@lisafarrow6840]

Brilliant!

[@sokosoko6543]

This house is so dreamy. WOW 💕💕

[@quintessenceblg]

It is indeed!!

[@quintessenceblg]

Isn't it?! We think so too!!

[@PJZZZZ]

love love LOVE how much he has thought out the process of the rooms making it feel as if the ouse has always been here.

[@quintessenceblg]

Exactly! Me too!

[@annolsen4943]

wow--this is one beautiful home. Exquisite taste.

[@hollywood7702]

Re watching this gem, so much to take away and learn from Gil. I have always been frightened of investing in a new build as I imagined them looking soul less with no character, and therefore gravitated only towards old homes. But Gil has totally changed that perspective, I am now converted.

[@quintessenceblg]

So delighted to hear that!! And yes, so many great takeaways from Gil - if you don't own already, I would highly recommend his books, especially the first, The Great American House!

[@hollywood7702]

@@quintessenceblg Thank you, it looks fantastic, I am so weak for creating a sense of lived in history in my surroundings, this book will be perfect inspiration.

[@janiec3915]

This house is so perfect! I too love older homes and this house definitely has that old look and feel being new. It really does look as if it has been there for decades. The light and the flow of the rooms is so nice where with older homes, a lot of the rooms are boxy and closed off. Thank you for sharing!

[@quintessenceblg]

Janie B-C Our pleasure!! Glad you enjoyed!! You might enjoy Gil’s book The Great American House with many of his similarly evocative projects!

[@opheliemarteil3903]

Un pur délice, dix minutes de bonheur... Tank you so much !

[@jenns.5791]

aw. he is such a sweet guy and his home is STUNNING!!! it's a perfect combination of cozy and chic, new and old. i LOVE it!! 😍

[@marquamfurniture]

Superb!! The most successful creation of an 'old house' I've ever seen! Developed with great historical awareness. (Usually there are modern give-aways, large and small, that betray the period.) Warm, comfortable, stylish, and inviting. Beautiful furnishings!

[@quintessenceblg]

Totally agree!

[@nikkil764]

Perfection, love Greek revival.

[@quintessenceblg]

Me too - such a great modern translation!

[@arela1030]

Wow 😮 a romantic story ,country home is a perfect relaxing so peaceful place .i loved it ,I’m so impressed so clean and beautiful lovely garden.living in nature and surrounded by natural resources is excellent medicine to our soul and heart 💕🌸🦋🦋🦋🦋I really enjoyed watching your addicted. Channel ,Thanks a millions Quintessence 🌸🌸💕🦋🍷🍷🍷

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank YOU!! We love our enthusiastic viewers!

[@lilithgrrrl]

Love this house! Would love to build a new "old" house and love all the special little details he put in. Wish we could have a full documentary where he and his designed just describe every room in detail!

[@quintessenceblg]

It’s a very special house! Gil is so talented! To see more of his work, he has two books, both worth owning!

[@sadieizzie]

WOW WOW WOW... what a beauty!!! detail detail detail... love it.

[@quintessenceblg]

Our sentiments exactly - thanks Sherrie!

[@TVMaster89]

Omg I kept reading about his work and it’s nice to see his home on video.

[@user-fx8qw3xi2n]

Joshua P what is his work?

[@tpittenger8]

Wow! One of the greatest videos you have! I'm in love with this house.

[@quintessenceblg]

Thank you Troy! It's a house that's easy to love!

[@paulalim1476]

Might be the most perfect house that I’ve ever seen!

[@quintessenceblg]

It is definitely a special house!! Glad you loved!

[@jsantiago6031]

Would not mind at all to be quarantined in this house. Nicely done.

[@ammihernandez71]

😁

[@willmacdesign]

Oh...gawd!!....I just wanted sit everywhere! Wonderful job ladies!! You're the best! xo

[@katecrowley1858]

More more more. This is my kind of house. Love it. Thank you. Kind regards. Kate

[@quintessenceblg]

Oh mine too!! Thanks Kate!

[@therealnewangel]

I always come back to this one.

[@quintessenceblg]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@deannavp2253]

I admire this house and it’s the beautiful decorations that makes it a home.

[@fishercourt]

I mean those hedges at the end, blew my mind! I didn’t realize they were so very huge in size!!! What a fabulous way to make separation and privacy for a yard area. I would love for someone to do that here, where living on a mountain with zero privacy with the neighbors so close looking down in both directions. We have a neighbor in the back of our home and the side of our home. The other side is a road. So, a large hedge would be a great way to make our land more private & serene.

[@quintessenceblg]

Yes they would!! We’re here to offer inspiration!!

[@flagal519]

This man and this house....absolute genius. And when you stand by the road and look at that velvet lawn and towards the front of that house...its like you have stepped into a movie.

[@quintessenceblg]

Agreed!! And yes, the approach is so very important - sets the tone!

[@michaelcollins3524]

This is such an amazing and tastefully designed and decorated home, everything is so well done! This guy is obviously incredibly wealthy but uses his money superbly.

[@pinkowl4738]

Thank you!

[@carobinsonrobinson3109]

Wow, just wow!!!

[@jennifercoralie9158]

The kitchen is perfect. Susanna, you are so naturally elegant you could wear a sack.

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you so much you are too kind!

[@rosalindhambleton39]

OMG ! What a gorgeous new "old" house. I am in love !! The way it is built, the different level of the floors, the light from the very long windows, the layers of books and other objects, it is gorgeous, it feels warm and comfortable. The landscape is amazing, well everything is gorgeous. Thank you so much for sharing, I really needed a Quintessence fix and I got it. Great job Suzanna and team. - Rosalind -

[@quintessenceblg]

Rosalind Hambleton Love that you appreciated all those amazing details! It is indeed a special house and property! - Stacey

[@susannasalk7153]

Thank you Rosalind!!!

[@gernotgueth4397]

Susanna Salk you did really a great work. I like them soooo much

[@brigitterobeis5505]

Very beautiful House

[@socuteize]

Gorgeous!!!

[@Usernameusername206]

Amazing! Incredible home! Thank you for the tour!

[@Fitzwillyfl]

Perfection!

[@LoireValleyChateaux]

I love this beautiful comfortable home. Well done! ❤️🙏

[@nllove7937]

sPerfection, both the house and your great way of showing it and interviewing the owner. A deserved shout to Bunny W. by the way.

[@susannasalk7153]

Than you!!! Hurrah to Bunny!!

[@Rickbla]

That would be my DREAM home. Beautiful and the layout is perfect.

[@DSOne7]

how wonderful! 😃

[@AnhVu-mn5lz]

I wonder who waters all of the pots? The pots with the flowers spilling out of them, gorgeous! This house is easygoing elegance blended with so much love. What a talented man.